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4th of July

 

The district is a spectacular place to celebrate July 4th! The National Mall, with Washington DC’s monuments and the U. S. Capitol in the background, forms a beautiful and patriotic backdrop to America's Independence Day celebrations.

One of the most attended events of the year; people arrive early to stake out a seat on the lawn to enjoy one of America’s largest fireworks displays over the reflecting pool on the National Mall while listening to a PBS Concert of the National Symphony Orchestra.

 The best way to get to the National Mall is to take the Metro. Stations nearby include Metro Center, Gallery Place-Chinatown, Judiciary Square, Federal Triangle and L'Enfant Plaza. Keep in mind the Smithsonian Metro station will be closed on the Fourth.

 

Here are some places in Virginia to see 4th of July fireworks.

 

Falls Church, George Mason High School, 7124 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, Virginia. Live music will start at 7 p.m. followed by fireworks at 9:30 p.m.

 

 

Fairfax, Fairfax City, Independence Day Parade through the downtown area beginning at 10 a.m.

Musical entertainment begins at 7 p.m. at Fairfax High School with a spectacular fireworks display at dark. (703) 385-7858.

 

McLean, Langley High School, 6520 Georgetown Pike McLean, Virginia. (703) 790-0123. Music performances, food, games, activities for kids and fireworks at dark.

 

Herndon, Herndon Community Center, 814 Ferndale Ave. Herndon, Virginia. (703) 787-7300. Entertainment, clowns, jugglers, food, fireworks at 9:30 p.m.

 

Leesburg, Ida Lee Park, Rt. 15 (King Street) and Ida Lee Drive, Leesburg, Virginia. (703) 777-1368. Gates open at 5 p.m. Fireworks around 9:30 p.m.

 

Manassas Park, 9300 Signal View Dr., Manassas, Virginia. (703) 335-8872. Enjoy live music, children’s activities, food and fireworks. 6-9:30 p.m. Parking is $3 and limited.

 

King's Dominion, 16000 Theme Park Way, Doswell, Virginia. Independence Day celebrations and fireworks on July 3 & 4, 2007.

 

 

Oronoco Bay Park, 7 North Lee Street, Alexandria, Virginia. Celebrate Alexandria’s Birthday & the USA’s on Saturday, July 7, 2007, 4-10 p.m. Enjoy a concert by the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra at 9 and fireworks at 9:30 p.m.

 

Helpful Link:

http://dc.about.com/od/4thofjuly/a/AlexFireworks.htm

 

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Fairfax County Fireworks

The Fairfax County Park Authority offers several family-friendly Independence Day events in the coming days. You’ll find that staying inside is not an option! Join us on July 4th for a wide array of program opportunities such as those listed below.

More than just fireworks, Independence Day is an opportunity for Americans to celebrate who they are and what it means to be an American. The day of freedom begins at Sully Historic Site from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. where the public is invited to join the ranks of the founding fathers, scribbling their own personal note to the Declaration of Sully. For $6, visitors get to keep their own quill pen and receive a guided tour of the site. Sully is located at 3601 Sully Road in Chantilly. For more information, please call 703-437-1794.

Once the kids begin itching for some afternoon fun, head over to Colvin Run Mill for a History Hunt at 1 p.m. Children ages six to ten will enjoy this educational scavenger hunt through local history. Following clues related to Fairfax County history, children will experience what life was like in historic Virginia. The event is $4 for each child and free for adults. If the whole party is coming (10 or more children), please call ahead and make a reservation. Colvin Run Mill is located at 10017 Colvin Run Road in Great falls. For more information, call 703-759-2771.

There will be no excuses for watching the fireworks on television this year. Both Lee District Park and Lake Fairfax Park will have entertainment and fireworks in the evening. Park admission to both parks is free and fireworks will be rescheduled for July 5 in the case of inclement weather.

In traditional Fourth of July fashion, the Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. with onsite food vendors to count down the hours until dusk. Fireworks begin around 9:15 p.m. Regular admission to the Water Mine still applies. Lake Fairfax is located at 1400 Lake Fairfax Drive in Reston. For information, please call 703-471-5415.

Lee District Park will celebrate with live music and international food from 5 p.m. until the fireworks display and formal ceremony at 9 p.m. This evening under the stars includes children’s entertainment, carousel rides, a DJ and live band. Parking for the event cost $5. Lee District is located at 6601 Telegraph Road in Franconia. For information, please call 703-922-9841.

 

Independence Day at Mount Vernon - Red, White and Blue Celebration

Celebrate Independence Day at George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens at a special event featuring musical performances, a wreathlaying ceremony, free birthday cake for all (while supplies last) and a visit by 'General Washington' himself.

Mount Vernon was the home of our first commander-in-chief, who led American troops to victory in the country's fight for independence. The annual Red, White & Blue Independence Day celebration is an unforgettable place to celebrate George Washington's contribution to America's freedom on July 4th. All events are included in regular Estate admission.

Join the George Washington Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) in a procession to George Washington's Tomb, led by the Fifes and Drums of Prince William III and the First Virginia Regiment.

 

Red, White and Blue Concert

 

The patriotic musical performance will feature the Concert Band of America, an 80-member company of retired musicians from each of the United States Armed Services bands, playing patriotic favorites and American standards.

Re-enactors from the First Virginia Regiment, and the Fifes and Drums of Prince William III will assemble for inspection and demonstrations on the Bowling Green, a reading of the Declaration of Independence by George Washington, and a cannon volley.

July marks the beginning of the wheat harvest season. Field hands will kick-off the season on Independence Day with wheat-treading demonstrations at the George Washington: Pioneer Farmer site. Costumed staff will lead Mount Vernon's horses as they tread wheat in the 16-sided barn at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m.

 

Link:

http://www.mountvernon.org/

 

 

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Amusement Parks

 

Below are theme parks within a drive of Washington,D.C., Paramount's Kings Dominion draws crowds from all over the region. The combination of big-time thrill rides and the 19-acre WaterWorks water park (included in the admission price) offers enough variety to entertain a family for the whole day. Less than 30 minutes from Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, Six Flags America makes a convenient day trip. There are over 100 rides, the Hurricane Harbor water park, an exhilarating daily parade and new live shows like the MagicQuest and Jukebox. 

 

Links:

Six Flags America - Largo, Md.

http://www.sixflags.com/america/index.aspx

Paramount's Kings Dominion - Doswell, Va.

http://www1.cedarfair.com/kingsdominion/index.cfm

Busch Gardens - Williamsburg, Va.

http://www.buschgardens.com/buschgardens_default.aspx

Sesame Place - Langhorne, Pa.

http://www.sesameplace.com/sesame/pa/index.aspx

Hershey Park - Hershey, Pa.

http://www.hersheypa.com/

 

More Information from AOL:

http://cityguide.aol.com/washington/theme-parks

 

 

BBQ Tips

 

If you’re holding a barbecue this summer, here are some tips that will ensure you'll be the perfect barbecue host

 

ü      Keep all your barbecuing tools handy - tongs, chopping boards, insulated gloves, brushes ect.

ü      Never mix together different raw foods (i.e. fish and chicken) in the same marinade. Always keep in separate containers. Use separate chopping boards and utensils for handling raw and cooked foods to prevent cross-contamination

ü      Remove meat and poultry from the fridge an hour before cooking and leave covered in a cool kitchen until required. This will help bring the food back to an ambient temperature, and will result in a more succulent cooked result.

ü      Always know how many guests you are expecting and make sure you are seated near to the kitchen. This means you won’t be barging past your guests when going to and from the house.

ü      Keep plenty of iced water handy – particularly if you’re barbecuing on a hot day. If you stick with the beer or wine your guests will soon be dehydrated (and you maybe too tipsy to tend the barbecue).

ü      Prepare dressings for salads and marinades for the barbecue in advance to be one step ahead of yourself – and the changeable weather! Meat and poultry will benefit from marinating overnight in the refrigerator rather than for an hour just prior to barbecuing, so do as much preparation ahead of time as possible.

ü      If you’re having a barbecue at night, don’t forget to consider the lighting.

ü      Check with your guests if they have any special dietary requirements.

ü      Burning citrus candles is a great way to keep the bugs at bay and stop them biting your guests, especially if you’re serving any sweet food or drinks.

ü      If you’re having an afternoon barbecue, make sure there’s plenty of shade to avoid sticky sun burnt guests.

ü      Pork, sausages, burgers and chicken in particular, must always be cooked through to the center. It might look cooked on the outside but can still be raw in the middle. Check by piercing the thickest part with the point of a sharp knife. If the juices run clear then the meat is ready. Any sign if pink juices will require further cooking.

ü      Be aware of wind direction and the proximity of neighbors when placing your BBQ.

ü      Clean your charcoal barbecue after each use, once the grill has cooled down - a wire brush and warm soapy water is all that is needed - little and often is secret. Your gas barbecue can be cleaned by simply burning off the grill for 10 minutes.

 

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Charcoal versus Gas - The Debate -

 

Ownership of gas barbecues has soared to an estimated 4 million households, adding fuel to the fire that has become the great charcoal versus gas debate.

 

Cynics and the charcoal faithful claim that the flavor of the food is not the same when cooked on a gas barbecue. However this way of thinking is slowly being dispelled as converts realize for themselves that the lovely barbecue flavor stems from food juices hitting a hot surface and it doesn’t matter whether the surface is lava rock or traditional charcoal.

 

Many People are also increasingly choosing to cook with gas because of the versatility it offers. Combined with the latest in barbecue technology, such as side burners for sauces, it truly provides countless opportunities to impress.

 

More sophisticated barbecues are even fitted with griddle plates, fast heating rings , plate supports to keep food warm and a hood or battery operated rotisserie for roasting meats.

 

The charcoal camp might argue that part of the fun of alfresco dining is the blood, sweat and tears that go into lighting the charcoal and achieving the right temperature for cooking. However, gas is quick and easy to set up, saving time for you to get on and enjoy your barbecue more quickly with a glass of wine, so personal choice on this argument prevails.

 

In this time precious era the quicker the food can be prepped, cooked and cleaned up the better, particularly if you are entertaining or decide to barbecue on the spur of the moment. And as the market is growing, higher specification models are now available offering more convenience and controllable heat – fast.

 

Gas barbecues are easier to clean too as most models have drip trays as standard to collect the fats and mess generated by cooking, and the barbecue can be cleaned simply by leaving the barbecue on for a couple of minutes after cooking to burn off any juices.

 

If it is an issue both gas and charcoal barbecues are available at a range of prices depending on your needs. However a cost to bear in mind is the cost of your fuel. The overall cost of gas can be a more cost-effective way of running a barbecue with one cylinder providing enough fuel run for up to 8 hours at maximum setting.

 

 

BBQ Links:

 

The Food Network - BBQ 101:

 

http://www.foodnetwork.com/food/et_sl_grilling/0,1972,FOOD_9872,00.html

 

FDA - Barbecue Basics: Tips to Prevent Foodborne Illness

 

http://www.fda.gov/consumer/updates/bbqbasics052207.pdf

 

the official website of the National Barbecue Association:

 

http://www.nbbqa.org/

 

National BBQ News:

 

http://www.barbecuenews.com/

 

 

Area Beaches (in alphabetical order)

 

 

• Assateague Island

Escape the crowds

http://www.nps.gov/asis

• Bethany Beach

Seven miles of serenity

http://www.townofbethanybeach.com/

• Cape May

Our first seashore resort

http://www.capemaychamber.com/

• Dewey Beach

Tranquil and hip retreat

http://www.townofdeweybeach.com/

• False Cape State Park

Remote Beach on the border

http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/fal.shtml

• Ocean City

Ten miles of white sand

http://www.oceancity.org/

• Point Lookout State Park

Historic park, great views

http://www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/southern/pointlookout.html

• Rehoboth Beach

Plenty of seaside charm

http://www.cityofrehoboth.com/

• Sandy Point State Park

A beach park for all seasons

http://www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/southern/sandypoint.html

• Virginia Beach

Sand to suit every taste

Camping

Washington, D.C. Area

 

Bull Run Regional Park  

Bull Run Regional park offers many things to those looking for some fresh air and respite from gridlock. 

Burke Lake Park  

The beauty of camping at northern Virginia campgrounds like Burke Lake is not so much the ability to "rough it" but more the opportunity to sleep outdoors with all of the recreational and cultural needs of the city. a

Lake Fairfax Park 

The first thing you'll notice as you enter the park is the fairly new Water Mine: Family Swimming Hole.

Pohick Bay Regional park   

"Pohick" was the name given this area by Algonquin Indians to aptly describe it as the "water place." With its marina, boat launch, and boat storage facilities, Pohick Bay Regional park offers a year-round entertainment.

Prince William Forest Park    

This 17,000-acre woodland, located just 32 miles from the nation's capital, could just as easily be 32 miles from the middle of nowhere.

 

Appalachian Mountains

 

Bubbling Springs Campground   

If you look at a map of Virginia's Bath County, you'll quickly notice many place names end with the word "springs." Springs are part of the karst--or limestone--topography that western Virginia is known for.

Camp Roosevelt Recreation Area

One way to explore and get to know more about this 50-mile mountain range is by taking the Motor Mountaineering tour of Massanutten Mountain that forest service personnel have laid out.

Cave Mountain Lake  

Located a short distance from Natural Bridge Caverns and Natural Bridge itself, this area of the Shenandoah Valley is ripe with limestone deposits, sinkholes, and the accompanying caves.

Douthat State Park 

The park's Depression-era beginnings led to its designation as a Registered National Historic Landmark. Great fishing in the 50-acre lake, and rental cabins

Elizabeth Furnace Recreation Area    

The Elizabeth Furnace Recreation Area is located at the northern end of the 50-mile Massanutten Mountain, whose eastern and western ridges surround Fort Valley like the eye of a need le.

Hidden Valley Campground

Tucked away in far western Virginia at the base of Back Creek Mountain, Hidden Valley richly deserves its name.

Hone Quarry Recreation Area 

The campground is set among mature hemlocks with an understory of young evergreens to separate the various campsites.

Lake Robertson 

You may be surprised to find playing fields and tennis, volleyball, and badminton courts as well as a swimming pool at this rural setting.

Little Fort Recreation Area    

While the "Recreation Area" part of this 10-site campground's name may be misleading, it remains a getaway for those with minimal need for amenities.

Locust Springs Campground  

Locust Springs Recreation Area is tucked away in a corner of Virginia so remote that you'll have to enter West Virginia to reach it.

Morris Hill Campground    

The Morris Hill Campground is located just a short walk via the Morris Mill Trail (0.75-mile point-to-point) or the Fortney Branch Trail (1.3-mile point-to-point)

North Creek Campground   

A no-frills area where you can pitch a tent in the shadow of towering hemlocks and even more towering mountain ridges.

North River Campground    

Those campers in search of good hiking trails and trout streams will find this an ideal site for a temporary respite.

Otter Creek Campground  

The level campground is wooded with mountain laurel, oaks, and pines, providing ample shade. The sites are well-spaced 

Peaks of Otter Campground    

Peaks of Otter offers a tremendous place to camp for those touring the Blue Ridge Parkway. Many visitors to the Peaks of Otter plan their visit during the beginning of June.

Sherando Lake Recreation Area    

a beautiful lake set against a mountainous background. This recreation area is tucked up against the side of the Blue Ridge Mountains on the eastern edge of the Shenandoah valley

Todd Lake Recreation Area   

Camping at Todd Lake will open a world of outdoor activity in this part of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests

 

Coastal Virginia

 

Chippokes Plantation State Park    

Chippokes is one of the largest working farms in the nation located in a rural, agricultural area off of the James River. The park has kept its boundaries since the 1600's. The Chippokes Mansion and Farm & Forestry Museum both offer scenic tours of its estate and formal garden. The 1700 acre lot is a grandview of cultivated gardens and woodland of azaleas, crepe myrtle, boxwood and seasonal flowers. Craggly beach area open for nature viewing. Other amenities include fishing, trails, camping and cabin rentals.

First Landing State Park    

Among First landing's current distinctions: it's the most visited park in Virginia's system with more than 1.2 million visitors annually.

Kiptopeke State Park    

Kiptopeke State Park is located at the southern end of Virginia's Eastern Shore just 3 miles from the 20-mile Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel.

Newport News Park    

As development in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia increases with a similar expansion of traffic congestion, the 8,000-acre Newport News Park, one of the largest municipal parks east of the Mississippi.

Northwest River Park    

Northwest River Park's 763 acres lie near the southern border of Virginia on the coastal plain. Those coming for the day or to spend a few nights are sure to find the peace and quiet they're looking for. 

Westmoreland State Park   

Just before the entrance is the trailhead for the 1.4-mile Laurel Point Trail, which loops around to the beachfront on the Potomac River.

 

Shenandoah National Park

 

 

Big Meadows Campground     

Big Meadows is Shenandoah National Park's largest treeless area, now encompassing a barren plateau that is approximately 640 acres, reduced from 1,000 acres in 1900.

Lewis Mountain Campground  

Lewis Mountain Campground is located in the central section of Shenandoah National Park.

Loft Mountain Campground   

Loft Mountain Campground is the southern-most of Shenandoah's campgrounds and makes an excellent base from which to explore this end of the national park.

Mathews Arm Campground    

Opportunities for hiking abound with 95 miles of the 2,100-mile Appalachian Trail running through the park.

 

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Concerts

 

This summer's festival season offers a little something for everyone, even mom and dad. Use this link from AOL City Guide which showcases this summer's hot festivals to satisfy any taste -- from R&B to indie-rock, there's a festival for you!

http://cityguide.aol.com/washington/tickets-concerts

 

 

Day Trips

 

 

• Annapolis

Lattes and midshipmen

http://www.ci.annapolis.md.us/

• Baltimore

Inner Harbor attractions

http://www.ci.baltimore.md.us/

• Eastern Shore

A relaxing day at the shore

http://www.qac.org/

• Frederick

For art and culture lovers

http://www.fredericktourism.org/

• Fredericksburg

A Civil War history lesson

http://www.nps.gov/frsp/

• Harpers Ferry

Historical and scenic spot

http://www.nps.gov/hafe/

• Hershey Park

America's chocolate heaven

http://www.hersheypa.com/

• Great Falls Park

Maryland's cascades

http://www.nps.gov/grfa/

• Monticello

Jefferson's masterpiece

http://www.monticello.org/

• New Market

Antiques capital of Maryland

• Williamsburg

A colonial adventure

http://www.colonialwilliamsburg.com/

 

  

For The Kids

 

It’s finally here; the time of year all our children look forward to the most. It’s summer time! But while kids are fantasizing about their holiday adventures, parents are stressing on what they can do to ensure that the next few months out of school are stimulating and productive yet enjoyable and affordable. One way to alleviate several of these concerns is by planning the summer in advance. You’ll be surprised at how much you can do with a little research and imagination. 

 

Following are 10 suggestions to help make this summer fun and memorable for both you and your family.

 

1. Public Library: Check with your local public library to see whether or not they are offering a summer reading program. In addition to reading classes, libraries also present guest speakers that come in and discuss a wide range of topics affecting several age groups. Examples may include peer pressure, free computer courses, religious tolerance, organizational skills and coping with class schedules. For toddlers, libraries have sessions conducted by trained story tellers. You may also request a reading list comprised of books and novels designed for each age category. It’s never too late or too early to introduce your child to the wonderful world of books and reading. 

 

2. Museums: Museums may offer summer programs within their specialty areas. Some art museums offer classes in cartooning, ceramics, drawing, painting, photography and sculpture. Historical museums help children develop an understanding of the history of their immediate area or state through hands-on lessons.

 

3. Zoo: Kids have always been fascinated by the Zoo, but did you know that a visit to the Zoo can also be a learning experience for children? Besides learning the names of animals, the Zoo is a great place for children to brush up on certain skills related to their age. For example, kids can learn the alphabet by visiting animals with names ranging from A-Z. Learn the alphabet along with amazing facts on the animals. Zoos also offer a variety of Adult-Child Discovery Programs designed to aid parents and children discover the zoo together. Age specific children work shops held at the Zoo allow children to explore a wide range of topics from conserving our environment to preventing animal extinction. So the next time you take a family trip to the Zoo, make it fun and educational all in one.

 

4. Scrapbook: Help your child cherish the summer memories by creating and decorating their own scrapbook. For those unfamiliar with scrapbooks, many arts and crafts stores offer starter kits ranging in size, price and design. You might even be able to catch a free day session at a Scrap Book Store, offering tips on starting and maintaining a book. Pick one up or start your own with a blank album, a few sheets of colored paper and a whole lot of imagination. And then just cut and paste away; creating your own borders, captions and excerpts describing events and emotions. You can even pick up a cheap disposable camera easy to use at an elementary level and have your child click away and create memories. A Scrapbook Club is a fun way to include and encourage your child’s friends to get together at someone’s house, maybe once a week and work on their books. Keep your child occupied and creative by introducing them to the wonderful world of scrapbooks.

 

5. Cooking: Most all children are intrigued by the Adult world of cooking. Allow your children to share in the pride and achievement of creating a special something for all to enjoy. Always under adult supervision there are several dishes that can be made without the use of heat. Salads, shakes, sandwiches, cakes, pies, the list is endless. Look through your cook books and find recipes that are simple, tasty and safe. Bake a cake and have your child decorate with home made frosting, using m&m’s, sprinkles and whipped cream. For something more nutritious try a fruit smoothie or just a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Older children can try planning and making dinner for the entire family. Toddlers can join the fun by breaking bread for stuffing or kneading dough bread.  Maybe your older child can plan a dinner for friends and make the meal themselves. This summer let your child explore all their senses of touch, taste, feel and smell through the art of cooking.

 

6. Be a Tourist: Maybe you are not able to travel out of town this summer, but that need not stop you and your children from being tourists in your hometown. Look online to see the main attractions your city has to offer  [link to travel channel?] or order a visitors handbook, which in most cities is free of charge. Then grab a camera, a hat, some sun block and you and your family are all set to be tourists. Perhaps visit a park you have not yet been to, pack a picnic, some games and spend the day out of the house. Discover your city, try a new restaurant and next time you have friends and relatives visiting you will know exactly where to take them.

 

7. Arts and Crafts: Have you been postponing the remodeling of your child’s room? Does someone in the family have a birthday approaching? Ever wanted to take a pottery class? Well what better way to redecorate your child’s room, than to include your child in the process. You may have grand remodeling plans and perhaps your budget may not allow for what you had specifically in mind, however, this summer you and your child can start with baby steps. Visit your local arts and crafts store and find various ways to decorate a room using simple tools that both you and your child can do together. Look at arts and crafts books designed specifically for simple home projects and pick a few that fit your budget and design plan. What about a birthday present? This year have your child make that special someone a picture frame with her handprint, footprint or for an older child consider working with beads. They can also make their own personalized photo album. Consider taking a class with your kids. A pottery class for example could be great fun for both of you and it will provide you with wonderful handmade decorations for your home. Stimulate your child and yourself, get some projects around the house completed and have fun.

 

8. Community Work: Now more than ever there is a need in America to strengthen community ties and help those less fortunate than ourselves. Traditionally, community service has been performed by adults; however, there are several organizations that can use the assistance of your child and in return build their character and self worth. A few hours of volunteer work a week can make a big difference in someone’s life. Check your yellow pages [link to yp on this site] and find out which organizations in your area can use the assistance your child can provide. A small helping hand will go a long way in the growth of your child.

 

9. Day Camps: Day camps are becoming more and more popular especially amongst younger children. Conducted by private and public institutions day camps do charge a fee but the activities are well worth the cost. Over the years YMCA has established a reputation for its healthy and fun day camps. Activities range from arts and crafts to hiking and swimming lessons. And an organization such as the YMCA offers day camps not just to children but to the entire family, allowing parents to spend a recreational day with their children. Check with your local YMCA or the recreational units of your municipal parks to see what day activities they are offering.

 

10. Summer School Program: Several schools offer a summer program to continue to enrich your child’s learning abilities. Check with the schools in your local district to see if there’s a summer program you like. In most cases there will be a nominal fee charged.

 

 

Family Fun Links:

http://www.familysummerfun.com/

http://www.wacona.com/summer/summerfun.htm

 

 

Games

 

Capture the Flag

There are two teams.

Team 1 has the front yard and Team 2 has the back yard, or a field was split between the two teams.  The teams are given a time period, like 5 minutes, to hide their flag in their part of the yard. 

[optional] During this period spies can be sent out to see were the flag was hidden as well as look-outs to catch the spies.

When the flag is hidden you call out that you are finished. Then you simply try to get the other teams flag. If you get caught and tagged by the opponent on their territory you go to jail and can only be freed by a teammate who grabs you when your opponent isn't looking.

The first team to capture the flag wins.  In most versions you have to both get the flag, and bring it back to your side.

This game is a totally different game at night in the woods!

Crack The Whip

The kids usually played this at recess and should be prepared to get dirty.

You need at least probably 6 people for the game to be effective but the more the better. You all hold hands like you would for Red Rover.  Someone is picked to be the leader and someone as the caboose.  The leader just starts running around like crazy and everyone else follows, being sure not to let go of hands.  Eventually after everyone has been running with full speed and making sharp turns the caboose and/or people next to him get sent flying because of the force of everyone running and turning.  This is a lot of fun but be prepared to get dirty if your on the end.  Also the leader and caboose can use two hands to hold on to the one person the are connected to. The caboose tries as hard as she/he can not to let go.  (Holding on and flying around was usually funnier then letting go and rolling to a stop  :)

Dodgeball

This requires a long wall or side of a house and a big rubber or kick ball. Everyone lines up and one person throws the ball at the wall in an attempt to hit a part of someones body. If they do, then that person is it and must now throw the ball. The object is not to throw the ball hard, but accurately in order to catch someone trying to dodge the ball.

OR

Kids form two teams. One team forms two lines facing each other. Two balls are the norm. The other team scatters about between the lines of the first team. The first team then throws balls at team two. If a member of team two was hit below the shoulders, s/he was out and had to stand aside. If a player on team two caught the ball in the air (not after a bounce), s/he received a free "life" (ie-if s/he is hit again, s/he has used up a "life" and is not out.) A player may not receive more than three "lives." The fourth, fifth, etc. time a player catches the ball, s/he may bring players who were out, back into the game by calling a name. If and when all players of team two are out, the teams switch places. 

VARIATION: If a player on the opposite team catches a ball you threw before it bounced, the thrower is 'out'

OR

We played Dodgeball in a circle (the circles were actually painted onto the blacktop on the playground). However many kids wanted to play, were divided up into 2 teams. One team was inside the circle and the other half spread out around the outside. We used a red rubber playground ball (about 14 inches in diameter) and threw it at the players inside the circle. The kids inside were allowed to run around where ever they wanted, but could not go out. We could only throw the ball to hit the kids inside below the waist. If a ball was thrown and hit someone above the waist, the thrower had to stop playing. If a kid in the center was hit, they became one of the players outside the circle. The game was over when only one person was left inside the circle.

OR An indoor variation on the dodgeball theme.

You form a circle and choose a person to start. That person tosses a ball (preferably a soft one, like Nerf) to someone across the room. If you catch it, you toss it to someone else. If you drop it, you sit down. Last person standing is the winner. It's a good rainy day game and nobody gets hurt, and hopefully nothing gets broken. :)

OR

Variation 1: Setup: You need a large open space and at least enough soft-mediem hard balls to have one team have enough balls to have one per player. You can have a lot more, or a lot less. You divide into equell teams. Playing area: Mark a large rectangle with a line through the middle. Rules: You throw the ball tring to hit one of the members of the other team. If they catch the ball, the person is out. If the ball hits a person in the head, the person is out who threw it. That all happens before the ball bounces. If the team with a person out hits a member of the other team, all their members are in again. If it bounces, the ball does not follow any of the above rules.

Variation 2: The only change of rules is that the team with the person out must hit the player of the other team to get the team member in.

OR

You divide up in two teams.  Drag a garden hose or other similar divider between the yard.  The teams each go to their own side, and may not cross the divider.  Gather as many balls as possible and split them up between the two teams to start.  You throw a ball at the other team, if you hit them below the head, they are out.  If they catch the ball, you are out.  The last person in is the winner.

OR Frisbee War:

Dodgeball played with frisbees instead of balls.  Usually There are two teams and a boundaries that you had to stay inside of.  Have a few frisbees, 2, 3 or 4, depending on how many kids are playing (sometimes up to 15 or 20 at a time).  If you catch someone's thrown frisbee then the thrower is out.  You play until one person or team remained.

One team is against a wall and the other team has playground balls at least 10 meters or so away from the other team. The throwing team can't cross the line and they begin throwing the balls at the other team.

The throws work like this:

-         Hit in the arm-arm behind back

-         Other arm-both arms behind back

-         Hit in the leg- one leg up

-         Other leg-one your knees

-         In the head or body-your out till next game

-         If you catch the ball you get a piece back

-         If no pieces are missing then someone who went out can come back in

Doctor and Spy

This game is very similar to the 2 team Dodgeball but it has a variation. Each team gets into a secret huddle before the game starts and decides on a "Doctor" and a "Spy". The games goes along as usual-with a line and throwing balls back and forth. If you get out (by getting hit or someone catches your ball), you stand to the side. The Doctor of your team can secretly walk by and touch your hand to get you back in the game. The facilitator of the game can at any time yell, "SPY! 10 Seconds!" and then slowly counts to 10. The designated Spy on each team is allowed to take a ball across the line and try to get the other team out. That person must be back over to his side before the ten seconds is over. This game can be played outside, in a gym, or even in a large indoor room (you can use crumbled paper instead of balls so you don't loose your lamps!) Which ever team gets all the other players out is the winner.

OR

Nationball:  this game was played by children in Russia under the name Sniper. The game was plated with those medium sized red rubber balls. It is the game where two teams play against each other in a large rectangle, which is separated by a line in the middle.

Each team starts with one player on the outside of the rectangle, on the opposite side from where they are standing. The rest of each team stands inside the rectangle. The point of the game is to hit players on the opposite team. When a player is hit, they then go on the opposite outside edge.

If the ball goes through the opposite team without hitting anyone, the people on the edge, chase after the ball, giving them the opportunity to try to hit someone again. Each time a person is hit, they must go out on the outside of the rectangle. The winning team is the team that has the last person left INSIDE the rectangle.

Freeze Tag

In this version of Tag, one person is still "it", but when they touch someone, that person is "frozen" in place. They cannot move and must stand with their feet apart. The only way they can become unfrozen is if a person crawls under their legs. Play continues until all the players are frozen. Then the last person to be frozen is "it" for the next game.

Kick The Can

This is an exciting combination of hide and seek and tag. One person closes their eyes and counts to some high number, while everyone else hides. Then, the person who counted (who has incidentally been guarding "the can") has to run around the neighborhood and find everybody. The tricky part is that once a person is found, they have a race, where the person who has just been found has to try to kick the can over before the counter tags them. When that game gets boring, there seems to always be those kids who will hide in a dumb, easy to discover place, with the intent of sprinting for the can if they're caught... it's a good game for building paranoia into your character. :)

Pickle A.K.A. Running the Bases

The rules of the game are pretty simple.

You'll need two bases (we used Mom's rugs), a softball and two softball gloves (if you don't have the gloves just use a ball that's not "hard."

Set up the two bases about 20 feet apart.

Two kids would be selected to be "it", one at each base.

The other kids would divide and go to the bases.

The game started by the two kids who were "it" tossing the ball to each other.

The object of the game was to time running from one base to the other without being tagged by the ball.

If you were tagged then you were "it" and the game continued, usually until all the kids were too tired to run anymore.

The fun of the game was getting the person who was "it" to throw a wide pitch or "steal" the base.

 

Ship Captain

One player is chosen as the captain. S/he calls out orders to the rest of the players who are the crew. If a player does not follow an order correctly, s/he is out. (This decision is made by the captain who is always right.)

Alternative rules: If playing in a pool, all of the orders stay the same except for "hit the deck" which becomes "walk the plank." This means that crew members must bob underwater.

To make the game less competitive, player do not get "out." Instead, if the captain notices that they do not follow an order, they must stand out for a count of 20.

Steal The Bacon

The object of Steal the Bacon is take the "bacon" back to your own side without being caught. In this game, two teams are chosen, and one umpire is selected. One object is required to the bacon. (a glove is a common choice) The members of each team are numbered. They form two opposing lines and place the bacon in the exact center between them.

The umpire then calls out a number. The players on each side who are assigned that number are the players for that round. No other team members leave their side of the field. Neither player may touch the other until someone touches the bacon. Once a player touches the bacon however, the other player may tag him/her.

If a player is able to grab the bacon and carry it back over to his/her own side, that team scores a point. (VARIATION: in some games, points are scored by carrying it to the other teams side or either team's side) If a player is tagged after touching the bacon and before he/she returns their own side, the team that tagged him/her scores a point.

Note that the sequence of play usually involves the two kids running out and hovering over the bacon, waiting for a slight advantage to grab it and run back before the other player can react.

The game is over when a predetermined number of points are scored, or when all numbers have been called.

VARIATION: The umpire can call more than one number, in which case several players from each side participate. In some games, players may tag any player on the opposing team, in others, a player may only tag the player on the other team that they share a number with.

Windows and Doors

A bunch of kids formed a circle holding hands. Then they would spead out enough that everyones arms were straight out, to form large spaces between kids. These were the windows and doors. Then one child would start running, and weaving in and out between children. As they did this the kids in the circle would randomly drop their arms down trying to touch or trap the person weaving their way in and out. Once the person was caught or touched by the arms of someone, they were out. They would then choose which person would be next to weave in and out of the windows and doors.

Here is a link for a full listing of games kids can play:

http://www.gameskidsplay.net/frame_alphabetical_listing.htm

 

Golf

 

Golf is a lifetime sport, and Fairfax County gives golfers the opportunity of a lifetime to play through the seasons on quality courses at affordable prices. From par-three to championship length, the Park Authority offers courses to suit beginner and expert golfers alike. All courses are professionally designed and carefully conditioned and maintained to provide the finest golfing in Northern Virginia. All courses are open year round, weather permitting.

Fairfax County Golf Link

http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/golf/

Every Body Golf School

Every Body Golf School’s friendly and professional staff has been providing golf instruction for all levels since 1995. Group lessons teach all facets of the game and provide one of the best values in the Northern Virginia area. Private, semi-private, and small group lessons with our experienced instructors can help golfers of all abilities take their games to the next level.

They have junior camps that provide a fun way for kids to learn the game—in a safety-first environment. Their experienced clubfitters ensure that your equipment suits you.

If you have any questions or would like to speak with an Every Body Golf School representative regarding our golf instruction, clubfitting, or anything else, please call them at (703) 255-5396.

Links:

http://www.everybodygolf.com/index.html

http://www.everybodygolf.com/html/locations.html

 

Hiking

Take a Hike! - Northern Virginia Offers a Wide Variety of Hiking Trails

Our area has many types of nature trails and interpretive trails, lake hikes and river hikes, hikes to viewpoints and mountain summits, urban hiking trails and backcountry treks. There is something for hikers of all abilities and experience levels, from the occasional day-hiker or nature walker to the seasoned hiker and long trail backpacker.

To enjoy the hike, it is essential that you are well prepared. Preparation includes, among other things, that you are medically fit; that you have done other similar hikes in the past; that you have enough food and water; that you have proper footwear; and that you are dressed for possible adverse weather.

Use the links below to find to the perfect hiking trail for you, everything from easy day hikes to moderately strenuous hikes and extended overnight backpacking trips.

Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority

Fairfax County Virginia – (private information page)

Northern Virginia Hiking Club ($5 a year membership; $2 a hike)

 

Indoor Fun

 

What happens when it is raining or 100 degrees in the shade?  Try these pen and paper games and check out our links to fun things online.

Pen and Paper Games

Categories

Draw a grid on a piece of paper - a square filled with smaller squares. The number of squares can vary, depending on the attention span of your child. Down the left side, put some letters of the alphabet (for example, you could spell out a child's name: LISA). Across the top, write categories - for example, girls' names, boys' names, animals, colours, cars, places. You can make this harder or easier by changing the categories. Players take turns writing in words that fit the category and start with the letter in the left-hand column. (Next to the letter L, in this example, you might have Laura, Liam, lion, lavender, Lexus and Labrador.) Give extra points for words that nobody else thought of.

Click here for a printable Categories template in a PDF format.

Battleship

For two players. Here's another popular game you can play without the official version. All you need is graph paper. Each player needs two grids. Label each grid by writing numbers across the top and letters down the side, so that the squares are easily identified as A8 or F5. One grid will be for locating your own ships, the other for recording shots against your opponent's ships. Each player places three or four "ships" on his grid, then let the guessing begin. The first person to sink all the other person's ships wins.

Click here for a printable Battleship template in a PDF format.

Hangman

Most people know how to play the traditional version of Hangman. But what about kids who aren't yet master spellers?

Neal plays a variation suitable for pre-writers. "We play it like 20 Questions - I would think of something, and my son would have to think of yes-or-no questions to guess what it was," she says. "Each time he got a no answer, I'd add another part to the Hangman figure."

Click here for a printable Hangman template in a PDF format.

Dots and Squares

Begin by drawing a grid of dots on the paper. Using lined paper or graph paper can make this a little easier. The first person draws a line connecting two dots beside each other. The second player then draws another line to connect another two dots. The goal is to be the person who draws the last side of a square. Then you put your initials inside the square (or some other abbreviation to claim your square). In some versions of this game, if you complete a square you get another turn. The player with the most squares when all the squares are drawn is the winner.

Click here for a printable Dots and Squares template in a PDF format.

Sprouts

If you can't quite master drawing a neat grid of dots, you might find this game easier. Draw dots randomly all over the paper. The first player draws a line between any two dots, and draws another dot in the middle of that line. The next player draws a line between any two dots, and puts a dot in the middle of that line. No lines may cross each other, but they don't have to be straight, so they can loop around other lines. Only three lines in total can emerge from any one dot. The dots put in the middle of the lines already have two lines connecting them to the two other dots, so they can only have one more line. The game continues until no more lines can be drawn. The person who did the last line is the winner.

Click here for a printable Sprouts template in a PDF format.

Foldovers

Give everyone a piece of paper. On the top section, draw a head. It can be an animal head or a person's head, as weird as you like. Now fold that section back, so that it's hidden, and slide it across the table to the next person. Without looking at the hidden drawing, the next person draws a chest and arms (of a person, animal, alien), folds it back as well and passes it on to the next person. Without looking at the previous pictures, that person draws a body (stomach and hips) and the final person draws the legs and feet. (You can have more or fewer sections depending on the number of people you have playing.) Finally, unfold your papers and laugh at the weird creatures you have created.

Click here for a printable Foldovers template in a PDF format.

Why? Because.

Each person writes down a question beginning with why (for example, Why do dogs bark?). Adults can help with the writing for children who find this difficult. Fold the top over to hide the question, and pass to the next person who, without looking at the question, writes an answer starting with Because (for example, Because chocolate tastes good). Then read out all the questions and answers.

Click here for a printable Why? template in a PDF format.

  

Building Words

For players who can read and spell. The first person writes down a letter. The next person adds a letter, and must have a word in mind. The next player adds another letter, again working towards spelling out a word. Next player adds another letter, and so on, until nobody can add another letter. If you think the other player doesn't have a word in mind, you can challenge him, and if he can't tell you the word, he's out.

Links:

A-Z Indoor Fun:

http://www.atozkidsstuff.com/indoorfun.html

Online Jig Saw Puzzles:

 

Outdoor Dining

 

In the warm weather, there's nothing better than dining outdoors. Find a patio, courtyard, or sidewalk café and enjoy a meal at a restaurant with scenic views or prime people-watching. Here are some restaurants with outdoor seating:

 

Alexandria

Mai Thai 6 King Street. (703) 548-0600. Thai.

Fish Market 105 King Street. (703) 836-5676. Seafood.

Landini Brothers 115 King Street. (703) 836-8404. Italian.

The Wharf 119 King Street (703) 836-2836. Steaks and Seafood.

Il Porto 121 King Street. (703) 836-8833. Italian.

The Warehouse Bar & Grill 214 King Street. (703) 683-6868. Steaks and Seafood.

Geranio Ristorante 722 King Street. (703) 548-0088. Italian.

Café Salsa 808 King Street. (703) 684-4100. Nuevo Latino.

Las Tapas 710 King Street. (703) 836-4000. Spanish.

Blue Point Grill 600 Franklin Street. (703) 739-0404. Seafood.

Southside 815 815 S. Washington Street. (703) 836-6222. Southern Casual.

Chart House Restaurant One Cameron Street. (703) 684-5080. Seafood.

Joe Theismann's Restaurant 1800 Diagonal Road. (703) 739-0777. Sports Bar & Grill.

Stella's 1725 Duke Street. (703) 519-1946. American.

Pat Troy's Ireland's Own 111 N. Pitt Street. (703) 549-4535. Irish.

Portner's Restaurant 109 S. Saint Asaph Street. (703) 683-1776. American.

Gadsby's Tavern Restaurant 138 N. Royal Street. (703) 548-1288. American.

Evening Star Café 2000 Mount Vernon Avenue. (703) 549-5051. American.

Caboose Café & Bakery 2419 Mount Vernon Avenue. (703) 566-1283. Bakery and Sandwiches.

Mango Mike's 4580 Duke Street. (703) 370-3800. Caribbean.

Indigo Landing 1 Marina Drive. (703) 548-0001. Southern.

100 King Restaurant 100 King Street. (703) 299-0076. American.

Georgetown

Sequoia, 3000 K Street, Georgetown. (202) 944-4200 Restaurant is located along the edge of the beautiful Georgetown waterfront. There is an outdoor bar, and you can dine outside as well. Hours are 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Tony & Joe’s, 3050 K Street, Georgetown (202) 944-4545 Seafood restaurant with outdoor seating along the Georgetown waterfront.

Sea Catch, 1054 31st Street, Georgetown (202) 337-8855 Seafood restaurant with a charming patio overlooking the C&O Canal.

Michel Richard’s Citronelle, Georgetown (202) 625-2150. Enjoy an elegant meal under the stars prepared by one of the Washington, DC area’s most renowned chefs at the Latham Hotel in Georgetown.

Downtown, DC

701 Restaurant, 701 Pennsylvania Avenue (202) 393-0701. Outdoor patio with view of Pennsylvania Avenue and the US Navy Memorial Plaza.

Blue Duck Tavern, Park Hyatt, 24 & M Streets, NW. (202) 419-6755. Farm-fresh meats and seafoods slow roasted on a wood-burning oven. Garden terrace seats 40. Outdoor fountain.

Ten Penh, 1001 Pennsylvania Avenue (202) 393-4500. Asian Pacific cuisine with a small outdoor patio.

Brasserie Les Halles, 1201 Pennsylvania Avenue (202) 347-6848 French restaurant with awning-covered outdoor tables.

Galileo, 1110 21st Street, (202) 293-7191 Enjoy an elegant meal prepared by renowned chef Roberto Donna at the sidewalk café or ask for a quieter table in the back garden.

Equinox, 818 Connecticut Avenue (202) 331-8118 Fine dining with a view of DC landmarks from an outdoor patio or glass-walled atrium.

Rosa Mexicano’s, 575 7th Street. (202) 783-5522 Upscale Mexican dining with a sidewalk café.

Primi Piatti, 2013 I Street, NW, (202) 223-3600. Outdoor seating on a sidewalk patio.

The Oval Room, 800 Connecticut Avenue, NW, (202) 463-8700. Outdoor dining available April thru September (weather permitting

Café Atlantico 405 8th Street, NW, (202) 393-0812. Latin American and Caribbean cuisine. Guests can dine outside (weather permitting) as 18 seats are available during the spring and summer months.

Ardeo 3311 Connecticut Avenue, NW, (202) 244-6750. Modern American cuisine, incorporating Asian, Mediterranean and traditional French flavors with 20 seats available for outdoor dining.

The Bombay Club 815 Connecticut Avenue, NW, (202) 659-3727. Portuguese and Indian cuisine served at 10 tables overlooking Lafayette Park.

Dupont Circle

The Dupont Grille, 1500 New Hampshire Avenue, Dupont Circle (202) 939-9596 Sidewalk cafe at Jurys Washington Hotel.

Sette Osteria, 1666 Connecticut Ave., NW (202) 483-3070 Neopolitan pizza parlor with a sidewalk café.

Iron Gate Restaurant, 1734 N Street, Dupont Circle (202) 737-1370. Romantic atmosphere on a stone terrace courtyard.

Hank¹s Oyster Bar 1624 Q Street, NW, (202) 462-HANK (4265).Serves a selection of seasonal New England beach favorites which are available outside on their 20 seat patio.

Jack's Restaurant and Bar 1527 17th Street, NW. Dupont Circle (202) 332-6767. European and American cuisine. 

Adams Morgan

Lauriol Plaza, 1835 18th Street, Adams Morgan (202) 387-0035. Tex-Mex restaurant with rooftop patio and sidewalk tables.

Reef, 2446 18th Street, Adams Morgan, (202) 518-3800 Casual dining with an enormous rooftop deck and bar.

 

Outdoor Movies

 

 

Movies Under the Stars

The hugely popular -- and FREE -- outdoor summer movie series once again sets up its screen on The National Mall. Sprawl out and enjoy classics like the iconic 'Casablanca' and the sharp political satire, 'All the King's Men.'

WHERE: The screen is located off of Constitution Avenue, between 4th & 7th Streets.

WHEN: Mondays at sunset (around 8PM). Movies play on except in extreme weather, and there are NO rain days. For updates call 877-262-5866.

ARRIVE EARLY! Moviegoers start staking out their spots as early as 5PM.

TAKE THE METRO: The Smithsonian stop (blue/orange lines) is the closest.

WHAT TO BRING: Blankets, snacks, beverages, umbrellas, bug spray, warm clothes.

WHAT NOT TO BRING: Tall chairs, alcohol.

 

2007 Movie Schedule:

7/16     Annie Hall

7/23     The Thing (From another world)

7/30     Wait until Dark

8/06     All The King's Men

8/13     Casablanca

Link:

http://cityguide.aol.com/washington/screenonthegreen

 

 

Starlight Cinema Drive-In Movies

Your evening will begin with an outdoor pre-movie program - music, food and children's activities. Then, at dark, the movies will start.

 

2007 Movie Schedule:

August 4:        Superman Returns

August 11:      Happy Feet

August 18:      Night at the Museum

August 25:      Over the Hedge

Welcome to the second year of Sully District Starlight Cinema. The movie nights are designed to bring people together and nurture community spirit. The program is modeled after the Park Authority's summer concert series held throughout the county and in 2007 will provide four drive-in movies, free for the public to enjoy, on Saturday evenings in August at Trinity Centre in Centreville.

Link:

http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/performances/starlight.htm

 

Top of Page

    

Parks

 

Fairfax County Parks   – Something for Everyone

Fairfax County oversees 400 parks and facilities on 23,717 acres of land. It operates recreation centers, historic and nature sites, golf and miniature-golf courses and a farmer’s market program. The County also offers special events and hundreds of classes. Here a brief listing:

 

-          Nine indoor RECenters with swimming pools, fitness rooms, gyms and class spaces.  Cub Run features an indoor waterpark and on-site naturalist.

-          Eight golf courses

-          Five nature and visitor centers

-          Several lakes including Lake Fairfax, Lake Accotink and Burke Lake

-          An aquatic playground at the Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole at Lake Fairfax Park in Reston

-          Two campgrounds in Reston and Fairfax Station

-          An ice skating rink at Mount Vernon RECenter and the Skate Park in Wakefield Park adjacent to Audrey Moore RECenter

-          Kidwell Farm, a working farm of the 1930s era at Frying Pan Park in Herndon

-          Eight distinctive historic properties available for rent

-          A working grist mill at Colvin Run in Great Falls and a restored 18th century home at Sully Historic Site in Chantilly

-          A horticulture center at Green Spring Gardens in Annandale

-          Thousands of acres of natural resources now further protected by the Natural Resource Management Plan. Cultural resources protected by the Cultural Resource Plan. Stewardship education programs underway and expanding.

-          Picnic shelters, tennis courts, miniature trains, carousels, miniature golf courses, disc golf courses, off-leash dog parks, amphitheaters, and marinas

-          Provides 275 athletic fields as well as park athletic field maintenance at 473 elementary and secondary schools.

-          Operates Clemyjontri, a fully accessible playground in McLean, VA.

 

Fairfax County Parks Link:

http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/news.htm

 

Virginia State Parks

You’ll find plenty of programs, events and activities at Virginia State Parks. Our 34 parks have thousands of campsites, hundreds of cabins, more than 500 miles of trails and convenient access to Virginia’s major waterways. We have beaches, picnic shelters, family lodges, meeting facilities, festivals, concerts, nature programs, cultural happenings… the list goes on and on. From Cumberland Gap to the Atlantic Ocean, there’s something for everyone at Virginia State Parks. Whether you’re after a relaxing picnic or a two-week vacation, leave life’s daily pressures behind and reconnect with nature and your family at a nearby state park.

 

Party Ideas

 

Here's to the lazy, hazy, days of summer....and that means time to celebrate in the great outdoors! Here are some fun summertime party ideas for Memorial Day, barbecues, picnics, pool parties, garden parties, 4th of July, Labor Day and many more reasons for fun in the sun!

 

Jimmy Buffett inspired 'flamingo' party - This party is so much fun!

Patriotic parties - Ideas for Memorial Day, 4th of July, and Labor Day...

Garden party - Flowers, veggies, sun and fun.

Pool party - In the hot summer months, what's more fun than a pool party?

Luau - Tiki bar, grass skirts, limbo and more...

Beach party - Invite your friends over for a 'life's a beach' party!

Child’s bug/garden party - Host a backyard surprises birthday party for your little nature lover.

Camping party - Time to swap ghost stories, roast marshmallows, and sleep under the stars....

Clambake - Inspired by the 'barefoot contessa'....

Fabulous 50's car cruise - Time to show off your hot rods and celebrate the 50's!

  

Pools

 

Private Pools in our area:

 

Brandywine Swim Club 

(703) 323-1109

4513 Pickett Rd, Fairfax, VA 22032
 

George Mason University - Fairfax Campus  

(703) 993-8444

4400 University Dr, Fairfax, VA 22030
 

Truro Community Center  

(703) 978-3040

4146 Elizabeth Ln, Annandale, VA 22003 

Ilda Community Recreation Association  

(703) 323-9813

8900 Braeburn Dr, Annandale, VA 22003
 

Old Keene Mill Swim & Racquet Club 

 (703) 455-1312

9534 Orion Ct, Burke, VA 22015
 

Old Keene Mill Swim & Racquet Club  

(703) 440-3738

9506 Orion Ct, Burke, VA 22015
 

Burke Station Swim Club  

(703) 912-9720

5820 Ridge Ford Dr, Burke, VA 22015
 

Vienna Aquatic Club

(703) 938-4331

625 Marshall Rd SW, Vienna, VA 22180
 

The Fitness Club of Fairfax  

(703) 352-2280

11230 Waples Mill Rd Suite 170, Fairfax, VA 22030
 

Centrium Fitness Resort  

 (703) 352-2280

11230 Waples Mill Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
 

Parliament Swim Club  

(703) 978-5522

8510 Parliament Dr, Springfield, VA 22151
 

Fox Hunt Swim Club  

(703) 451-5015

7024 Spaniel Rd, Springfield, VA 22153
 

Cottontail Swim & Racquet Club  

(703) 455-1394

7172 Game Lord Dr, Springfield, VA 22153
 

Vienna Park Swimming Pool 

(703) 560-9824

212 Cedar Ln SE, Vienna, VA 22180
  

Orange Hunt Swim Club  

(703) 451-9815

8600 Bridle Wood Dr, Springfield, VA 22152
 

Dunn Loring Swim Club 

(703) 698-0071

Vienna, VA 22180

 

Oakton Swim & Racquet Club  

(703) 620-6772

11714 Flemish Mill Ct, Oakton, VA 22124
 

 

Recreation

 

Fairfax County Park Authority's nine recreation and fitness centers serve over one million customers annually, offering the latest exercise equipment, the metro area's top aquatics facilities and classes that cover the leisure alphabet from Aerobics to Zoom Photography. RECenters are places where anyone can be comfortable improving their fitness level, whatever level it is. Friends and family can play together in the water or on the courts. All RECenters have classes and camps for children and some have pre-school programs for our littlest customers. RECenters are conveniently located. They start early, close late, and are open seven days a week.

There is an admission charge to all RECenters. Proof of Fairfax County residency entitles visitors to a discounted admission rate. All racquetball court use requires advanced reservations and can be made by calling the individual recreation center. An additional hourly court charge is required for racquetball depending upon the day and time of play.

Fairfax County Recreation Centers Link:

http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/recenter.htm 

 

Washington Post FairFax County Recreation Link:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/metro/usersguides/fairfax/SptsRec.html

 

Safety

 

Well, it’s summertime. As a parent your job is to teach your children to be safe while they have fun. They’re excited! But safety and caution need to be part of the equation, too.

Here are some tips for young ones and their parents:

Every child should have a helmet. Helmets are important for biking, roller-blading, and horseback riding, among others. Look for a safety-approved helmet by ANSI or Snell that fits the head well. If your helmet has been damaged in any way, replace it.

Roller Blading

When roller blading, in addition to a helmet, don’t forget to wear wrist guards and elbow and kneepads. Most of us put our hand out when we’re falling, often breaking the wrist.

Bike Riding

When bike riding, wear a helmet! Teach children to ride with traffic. Stop and look both ways before entering the street. Use hand signals before turning. Don’t ride a bicycle at dusk or in the dark, even with reflective tape and accessories. Encourage your child to call home for a ride instead.

Swimming & Boating

When swimming and Boating, nothing is more heartbreaking than a child’s death that could have easily been prevented. Children should learn to swim from a qualified instructor. Kids can be any age. Supervise your children diligently whether you’re near a pool or a creek. Never take your eyes off preschoolers, even if they’ve had swimming instruction. Children should never swim alone. Have adult supervision. Show your child where it’s safe and where it’s not for diving in a pool. Diving in a shallow area can cause neck injury or drowning. Don’t dive in a natural body of water because you can’t see the bottom of a lake or river. Don’t allow your children to swim in fast-moving water, such as a river or canal. Every boater, certainly children, should wear the life jacket. Alcohol and boats don’t mix. Drunk boating is the equivalent of drunk driving.

Camping and Hiking

Carry plenty of water and snacks. Consider appropriate outdoor dress: clothing made of fleece, wool, or Gortex. Cotton will take heat from your body if you get wet and you’ll be at risk for hypothermia. Although it’s tempting, don’t let your kids climb rocks. Serious injuries can occur even after a 10-foot fall. Tell your children to “hug a tree,” or stay in the same place if they get lost. Have your child wear a whistle and to signal you if he gets separated. Don’t allow your child to run ahead of the group. Lightning storm? Ride it out in a car or building, if you can. Avoid trees during lightning. Lightning can kill or seriously injure a child.

Summer can be the best part of the year for your child and for you! Enjoy it safely.

 

How to treat a Sunburn

 

Try to following tips to help sooth a Sun Burn.

Aloe Vera Gel

For sunburn there is nothing better than aloe vera gel; it is antibacterial and deeply healing for burns in part because of aloectin B, which stimulates the immune system. Aloe vera gel is used in hospitals for burn victims. Aloe Vera comes from the aloe vera plant, and the gel may be squeezed from its leaves, or you can buy pure aloe vera gel as a product in most health food stores.

Vitamin E Cream

One of the antioxidants, vitamin E creams, ointments and oils, can help heal sunburn damage and shorten its effects.

Increase Your Vitamin C

Another antioxidant, increasing your vitamin C intake while sunburned will help you heal.

Cool Bath

Have a cool (not cold) bath to which 1/2 a cup of baking soda has been added. Or, you can add a few drops of lavender or chamomile essential oils, or gently apply cool, wet compresses to the skin.

Calendula Creams

Calendula is one of the most healing plants. The flowers are emollient, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antiviral. They are immune system stimulants and rich in carotenoids. Look in your health food store for calendula creams and ointments.

Avoid Petroleum jelly, as it will hold in the heat.

 

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Summer Quotes

 

Quote:

"In summer we live out of doors, and have only impulses and feelings, which are all for action, and must wait commonly for the stillness and longer nights of autumn and winter before any thought will subside; we are sensible that behind the rustling leaves, and the stacks of grain, and the bare clusters of the grape, there is the field of a wholly new life, which no man has lived; that even this earth was made for more mysterious and nobler inhabitants than men and women. In the hues of October sunsets, we see the portals to other mansions than those which we occupy."

Author: Thoreau, Henry David

Attribution: Henry David Thoreau (1817–1862), U.S. philosopher, author, naturalist. A Week on the Concord and Merrimack Rivers (1849), in The Writings of Henry David Thoreau, vol. 1, p. 403, Houghton Mifflin (1906).

 

"Summertime and the living is easy,

Fish are jumping, and the cotton is high."

Authors: Gershwin, Ira; Heyward, Du Bose

Attribution: Ira Gershwin (1896–1983), U.S., and Du Bose Heyward (1885–1940), U.S. lyricist. Summertime (song), Porgy and Bess (show, 1935).

The song was a hit for Billie Holiday in 1936. Music by George Gershwin.

Yahoo! Link: (81 summer quotes)

http://education.yahoo.com/reference/quotations/category/summer

 

Trails

 

The Fairfax Cross County Trail is the result of an effort by volunteers and Fairfax County to create a single trail connecting the entire county from one end to the other. It utilizes existing trails along stream valleys with some connections along roads between valleys. Since it ties together different trails and differing terrain users will find that certain sections will not be appropriate for some uses. Also, a number of future improvements are planned but budget constraints limit the number of improvements that can be implemented in one year.

 

Fairfax County Trail Maps:

http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/nmtc/maps.html

http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/cct/

More Information & Interactive Maps & Pictures:

http://restonpaths.com/CCT/index.htm

 

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Travel

 

Headed to the United States Plan wisely with travel guides, travel reviews, maps and United States tourism hot-spots!

 

AOL Travel Link:

http://information.travel.aol.com/travel-guide/united-states

Washington Post Travel Link:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/artsandliving/travel/

Local Traffic

Washington Post Traffic Link:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/metro/traffic/index.html

 

Water Parks

 

·         Great Waves at Cameron Run Alexandria, VA

http://www.nvrpa.org/cameron.html

·        Six Flags Hurricane Harbor –  Largo, MD

http://www.sixflags.com/america/index.aspx

·        Splash Mountain Water Park – Ocean City, Md

http://www.jollyrogerpark.com/

·        Splash Down Waterpark – Manassass, VA

http://www.splashdownwaterpark.com/index.html

·        Water Country USA - Williamsburg, VA

http://www.watercountryusa.com/wc/default.aspx

·        Water Mine Swimmin' Hole at Lake Fairfax Park

http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/lakefront.htm

·        WaterWorks at Paramount's

http://www1.cedarfair.com/kingsdominion/index.cfm

·        Chesapeake Beach Water Park

 

 

 

Zoos & Museums & Landmarks

 

Zoos:

 

• Smithsonian National Zoological Park  Rock Creek Park, DC

Link: http://nationalzoo.si.edu/

• Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge  Cambridge, MD

Link: http://www.fws.gov/blackwater/

• Catoctin Wildlife Preserve and Zoo Thurmont, MD

Link: http://www.cwpzoo.com/

• Jack Hanna's Wild Reserve  Williamsburg, VA

Link: http://www.buschgardens.com/bgw/aaa_jack_hanna_reserve.aspx

• Leesburg Animal Park  Leesburg, VA

Link: http://www.leesburganimalpark.com/

• Maryland Zoo in Baltimore  Druid Hill Park

Link: http://www.marylandzoo.org/

• Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary  Upper Marlboro, MD

Link: http://www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/southern/merkle.html

• National Aquarium  Downtown, DC

Link: http://www.nationalaquarium.com/

• National Aquarium in Baltimore  Inner Harbor, MD

Link: http://www.aqua.org/

• Reston Zoo  Vienna, VA

Link: http://www.restonzoo.com/

 

Museums:

• Corcoran Gallery of Art  White House Area

Link: http://www.corcoran.org/

• Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden  National Mall

Link: http://hirshhorn.si.edu/

• International Spy Museum  Penn Quarter

Link: http://www.spymuseum.org/

• National Air and Space Museum  National Mall

Link: http://www.nasm.si.edu/

• National Gallery of Art  National Mall

Link: http://www.nga.gov/

• National Museum of American History  National Mall

Link: http://americanhistory.si.edu/

• National Museum of the American Indian  National Mall

Link: http://www.nmai.si.edu/

• National Museum of Natural History  National Mall

Link: http://www.mnh.si.edu/

• National Museum of Women in the Arts  Downtown

Link: http://www.nmwa.org/

• United States Holocaust Memorial Museum  National Mall

Link: http://www.ushmm.org/

 

Landmarks:

• Arlington National Cemetery  Arlington, VA

Link: http://www.arlingtoncemetery.org/

• Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial  National Mall

Link: http://www.nps.gov/fdrm/

• Korean War Veterans Memorial  National Mall

Link: http://www.nps.gov/kwvm/home.htm

• Lincoln Memorial National Mall

Link : http://www.nps.gov/linc/

• National World War II Memorial  National Mall

Link: http://www.nps.gov/nwwm/

• Thomas Jefferson Memorial  National Mall

Link: http://www.nps.gov/thje/

• U.S. Capitol  National Mall

Link: http://www.aoc.gov/

• Vietnam Veterans Memorial  National Mall

Link: http://www.nps.gov/vive/

• Washington Monument  National Mall

Link: http://www.nps.gov/archive/wamo/monument/monument.htm

• White House  National Mall

Link: http://www.whitehouse.gov/history/tours/